Thomas Elzie Segar died peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends on January 28, 2014, from complications related to dementia. He was born on January 27, 1927, in Hollywood, CA to E.C. and Myrtle Segar. His father was the creator of 'Popeye', and Tom was the inspiration for the character of 'Sweet Pea'. After graduating from Santa Monica High School in 1944, he joined the Navy. When the war ended, he completed his education at U.C.L.A, graduating with honors in accounting in 1949. He became a Certified Public Accountant and held various positions in business and industry. He started a number of companies in manufacturing and distribution before retiring for the first time in his 50's For the past thirty years, Tom has lived in Mendocino County. He bought Soda Creek Ranch in Bell Valley in 1983 and turned it into a nature preserve. He and his family moved to Ukiah in 2000, where he was often seen driving his fire engine red Corvette around town. Tom was an amateur actor, ceramicist, student, businessman and philanthropist. He had a special love for Ukiah Players Theatre, Plowshares, St. Mary's School, and individuals in need. He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Marie Clausen. He is survived by his wife of thirty years, Lucinda May, and his children, Tim (Susan Puls) of Durango, Colorado; Jeff (Yianna) of Casper; and Susan (Josh Broschat) of Santa Clara; and two grandchildren, Clare and Jackson, of Huntington Beach. With remarkable energy and enthusiasm, he loved life passionately and completely. We have been greatly enriched by knowing him. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2014 at Holy Trinity Church in Ukiah. Reception will follow in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers please donate to UPT, Plowshares, or St. Mary's school.

Published in Ukiah Daily Journal from Jan. 30 to Jan. 31, 2014